Typical pricing below

Site Cuts

A site cut levels a sloping block by cutting into the high side and, in some cases, filling the low side to create a flat building platform. It's a specific piece of earthworks used before laying a slab or building a structure on a slope, and it's usually followed by retaining to hold the cut face. How much needs to be cut, and whether an engineer needs to sign off on the platform, depends on the slope and the site's soil classification.

Get free quotes for site cuts Read the FAQs

Pricing guide: How much does a site cut cost?

Typically $50 to $120 per square metre of platform, depending on the depth of cut, soil type, access and whether retaining is included.

Why homeowners choose it

Creates a level, buildable platform on a sloping block
Reduces step-downs and stepped footings in the structure above
Sized to the site's fall, minimising unnecessary cut and fill
Sets up clean drainage falls away from the finished platform
A defined scope that's easier to quote against than open-ended earthworks

How it works

1

Survey and design

A survey establishes existing levels and the design sets the cut and fill needed to achieve the target platform level.
2

Strip topsoil

Topsoil and vegetation are stripped and stockpiled separately from structural fill material.
3

Cut and bench

The high side of the block is cut back, often in benched steps, to reach the design level.
4

Fill and compact

Where fill is needed on the low side, it's placed and compacted in layers to an engineered standard.
5

Retain and drain

The cut face is retained where required and drainage installed to direct water away from the platform.

Hiring guide

Questions worth asking before you commit to a contractor.

Are they licensed and insured for this work?

Ask to see it, not just take their word for it. Insurance protects your property if something goes wrong on site.

What exactly is included in the price?

Site preparation, disposal of old material, and any council permits can be included or charged separately — get it in writing before you compare quotes.

Who will actually be on site?

Some contractors do the work themselves; others subcontract parts of it. Neither is wrong, but you should know who is doing your job.

What happens if something unexpected turns up?

Old concrete, tree roots or drainage issues are common surprises. Ask how a change of scope gets costed before it happens, not after.

What is the warranty on the work?

Materials usually carry a manufacturer's warranty. Ask specifically about the contractor's own workmanship warranty too.

More guides and advice

Frequently asked questions

How much does a site cut cost?

Typically $50 to $120 per square metre of platform, depending on the depth of cut, soil type, access and whether retaining is included.

Do I need engineering for a site cut?

Cuts above around 1 metre, or on reactive or unstable soil, commonly need geotechnical or structural engineering input and sometimes a permit.

What's the difference between a site cut and general excavation?

A site cut specifically levels a sloping site to a design platform level, while excavation is a broader term covering any digging, including trenches and holes.

Does a site cut always need a retaining wall?

Not always, but any cut face steeper than the soil's natural angle of repose generally needs retaining to stay stable long term.